PhD project
Creating New Identities through Artivism in Social Media: A Case Study of Sri Lankan Muslim Women
In an era of digital empowerment, this research delves into the transformative journey of Sri Lankan Muslim women on social media. Through art and activism, they challenge stereotypes, redefine norms, and construct new identities. Focusing on Facebook, this case study employs online ethnography as the primary methodology to uncover how these women utilise the digital canvas to reshape their narratives. By decoding patterns and themes, this study unveils the power of their Art Activism. This study imagines a future in which digital platforms emerge as powerful instruments for societal transformation, amplifying voices that have been overlooked and nurturing empowerment.
Research interests
- Media Studies
- Social Media
- Muslim Women
- Early years/Early Childhood
- Artivism/Art Activism
- Art Therapy
Shameela serves as the Editor-in-Chief of FemAsia Magazine. She co-founded it in 2018 as a non-profit online quarterly magazine based in the UK. FemAsia Magazine is an alternative voice for women. It is a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering, inspiring, and amplifying the voices of women and marginalised communities across Asia and beyond. FemAsia believes in multiple stories rather than one dominant story.
As the co-founder and Editor-in-Chief, Shameela leads and oversees all aspects of the publication, which is pivotal in shaping its vision and editorial direction. Shameela's responsibilities include visionary leadership, editorial direction, content curation, team management, strategic partnerships, brand representation, innovation, growth initiatives, and community engagement.